Ryan Harris, who placed third in last year’s 100 Cycle Challenge, is confident of securing a top result in Sunday’s race that takes place from the Germiston Lake, Gauteng.
“I hope to better my position from last year and hopefully come off with a win. Last year’s race was good for me, although I was hoping to win the UCI-classified race.”
The TEG rider added that due to the route featuring a flat course the team would probably have to aim for a bunch sprint.
Ryan Harris is confident of securing a top result in today’s 100 Cycle Challenge that takes place from the Germiston Lake, Gauteng. Photo: Lionheart
“Also, [it would be good] if we can get one of our riders into a break with others around him that we know he can beat, or something along those lines.”
He felt the route suited him and he would be happy if it came down to a sprint.
“I feel my sprinting is on form and I’m comfortable with it coming down to that.”
Harris said due to it being a flat race if the break got away and it comprised strong riders it could stay away.
“Usually if a bunch sits up and just hesitates for a bit that gap can really grow quite quickly. It’s quite hard to bring it back on such flat roads where the bunch and break are rolling at the same speed.”
The UCI event will now be raced over 130km and will culminate with six laps of 5km each around the lake. Another change introduced to this year’s edition is the later starting time.
“It will have an impact on the race and a lot of guys are also not used to starting a race at noon. It’s a more European-style type of racing, time wise.
“I’m looking forward to not having to wake up at 3am, so it’s very welcome.”
The 21-year-old added that it was an important race for him due to riders being able to rack up UCI points.
“It will help in our campaign to get spotted by overseas teams. I’d love to gain some more UCI points.”
